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Louisiana Restaurant Association Honors 2026 Industry Award Winners
Jul 29, 2026
The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) recognized outstanding leaders in Louisiana's hospitality industry during the 2026 LRA Awards Ceremony at the 73rd LRA Showcase, held as part of the Association's 80th Anniversary celebration.
The LRA's highest honor, Restaurateurs of the Year, was presented to Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski for their exceptional leadership, nationally recognized restaurants, and longstanding commitment to advancing Louisiana's hospitality industry through workforce development, advocacy, and engagement with the LRA and the LRA Education Foundation.
The LRA ICON Award was presented to Café du Monde and the Roman family in recognition of the iconic New Orleans institution's more than 160-year legacy of hospitality. Beyond its world-famous coffee and beignets, Café du Monde exemplifies a culture of employee loyalty, with 38 team members having served more than 20 years, representing more than 1,200 years of combined service.
The LRA also inducted Gerald Judice of Judice Inn and Bob Kirchoff and Phil Barbaree of Superior Restaurant Group into the LRA Hall of Fame for their lasting contributions to Louisiana's restaurant industry and their enduring legacies of hospitality.
Darren Chiasson, State President of Reyes Beverage Group, received the Associate Member of the Year Award for his outstanding partnership and continued support of the LRA and the Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation.
The Advocates of the Year Award was presented to Senator Alan Seabaugh and Representative Raymond Crews for their leadership during the 2026 Legislative Session and their efforts to strengthen Louisiana's business climate through workers' compensation reform.
"These honorees represent the very best of Louisiana hospitality," said Stan Harris, President and CEO of the Louisiana Restaurant Association. "Their leadership, innovation, and commitment to serving their communities continue to elevate our industry and inspire future generations."
The LRA congratulates all of the 2026 award recipients and thanks DIRECTV for Business – National Accounts for sponsoring the awards ceremony.